Assistant Cook, SY 26/27

Essex Westford School District (EWSD) is a dedicated public school district committed to providing high-quality education and fostering an inclusive, culturally diverse community for students and staff. Located in the scenic region encompassing Essex and Westford, Vermont, EWSD strives to create a learning environment that supports the intellectual and personal growth of every individual within its schools. The district operates a variety of educational facilities, including Essex High School, and is renowned for its comprehensive approach to education, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also community engagement and student well-being. EWSD’s vision of "Growing hearts and minds, for a better today and tomorrow: every day, every way, every one," reflects its unwavering commitment to nurturing both the academic and emotional welfare of its students.

EWSD is currently seeking a full-time Assistant Cook at Essex High School starting with the 2026-2027 school year. This role is vital to ensuring the efficient and effective operation of food preparation, production, and service across all Child Nutrition Program (CNP) sites within the district. The Assistant Cook will play a key role in supervising and actively participating in daily cafeteria operations, which include preparing, cooking, and serving food to meet high standards of quality, safety, and sanitation. This position involves overseeing cafeteria workers, assisting with employee training, assigning daily tasks, monitoring workflow, and providing solutions to operational challenges. The role also requires helping with stocking and setting up work areas, maintaining cleanliness, safely handling food, and complying with state sanitation guidelines, such as the use of hair restraints and clean outer garments.

This position requires a professional who is organized, detail-oriented, and capable of multitasking to support the smooth operation of all cafeteria services within EWSD. The Assistant Cook will work directly with kitchen staff and supervisors to ensure all meals are prepared and served in a timely and sanitary manner. The role also includes acting as backup to Kitchen Supervisors when necessary. Candidates are encouraged to have a commitment to working effectively with diverse populations and an understanding of cultural competency. Experience in food preparation, supervision, and safety within an educational or similar environment is highly desirable. EWSD values candidates who bring diverse perspectives, including those with international experience or multilingual abilities.

As part of the Essex Westford School District team, the Assistant Cook will benefit from being a part of a collaborative and supportive work culture dedicated to community well-being and student success. The role not only offers an opportunity to contribute to the daily nourishment and health of students and staff but also to grow professionally within a district that values inclusion, diversity, and community engagement. EWSD conducts thorough background checks and screening processes to ensure a safe and trustworthy environment for its students and staff. Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of these screenings.